Tips to plan the perfect theater weekend getaway
With the 2020-2021 Bank of America Broadway on Hennepin season recently announced, it’s the perfect time to plan a theater getaway weekend. Whether you’re coming into downtown Minneapolis from out of town or planning a city staycation, here are some foolproof ways to turn an event in to a weekend and get the most out of the city.
- Pick your weekend: First things first. A Broadway show makes the perfect centerpiece for a weekend retreat. Look through the upcoming shows and choose the one that ignites your imagination:
Anastasia, March 24-April 5, 2020
Disney’s Frozen, May 6-31
Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, July 14-19
Come From Away, August 11-23
Hamilton, October 6-Nov. 22
To Kill a Mockingbird, December 15-20
Oklahoma!, January 19-24, 2021
Ain’t Too Proud, February 16-28
Jersey Boys, March 16-21
Moulin Rouge!, April 14-May 2
The Prom, May 18-23
Cats, June 8-June 13
Hadestown, June 22-27
Tootsie, July 27-August 1
Tip: The hottest shows sell out quickly. The best way to guarantee a seat is to buy a season subscription. If you’re just looking for one or two shows, make sure to sign up for our weekly event newsletter to get alerts for when shows go on sale. - Find your hotel: All these Broadway shows are staged at the historic Orpheum Theatre at 9th Street and Hennepin Avenue — in the heart of the vibrant Hennepin Theatre District. You’ll find hotels nearby ranging from cozy to swanky, many within walking distance. Explore our map of hotel partners to find the one that meets your needs.
- Choose your transportation: Downtown Minneapolis is both car and transit friendly. If you want to leave your car behind in the hotel parking lot, MetroTransit’s Blue Line connects downtown Minneapolis to the airport and the Mall of America and several other fun neighborhoods. The Green Line will take you to downtown St. Paul, with an added bonus of being able to check out public art at 18 stops along the way.
- Don’t forget dinner: If you’re the type who likes to plan your meal in advance, check out these discounts from Hennepin Theatre Trust’s restaurant partners. Many of them create themed menus to coincide with Broadway shows. If not, there are plenty of other good eats you can find on an impromptu walk.
- Plan your itinerary: If you prefer to schedule activities in advance, check out these itineraries to meet any adventuring needs. For free spirits who want to leave time to explore, there is so much art in the Hennepin Theatre District, all you have to do is head out your hotel door and look up. Here’s a Hennepin Theatre Distrist art tour map (PDF 311KB) to guide you.
- Pack: Wondering what to wear? The Orpheum, State and Pantages theatres have no dress code. You’ll see a range from business casual to sparkling evening gowns. Many Broadway fans like to dress up to celebrate attending a special event.
- Enjoy! Once you’re downtown, don’t forget to snap some photos and tag #HennepinTheatreDistrict!